Basics of Laboratory Setup in the Office

Abstract

Establishment of a pregnancy via in vitro fertilization (IVF) is a multifactorial process with several steps critical to its success. Important components include procurement of a reasonable number of good-quality mature eggs, proficiency of microassisted fertilization when needed, laboratory culture conditions that are noninhibitory and conducive to the fertilization and development of the resulting embryos, and finally a smooth and efficient transfer of high-quality embryos. A breakdown in any of these areas is sure to limit the success of a program. The design and function of the laboratory is thus of paramount importance.